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LYON, France – Today’s successful resolution of the criminal investigation by French authorities into the series of deadly shootings in Toulouse in Southwest France by Mohamed Merah in which seven people, including three children, were murdered, has been praised by INTERPOL.

Head of the world police body, Secretary General Ronald K. Noble commended the valuable contributions made by all those involved – the Minister of Interior, Claude Guéant, police, judicial authorities, the government and French citizens – all of whom combined in the swift identification and location of this dangerous terrorist.

“After more than 30 hours of patient negotiations and attempts by governmental authorities to end this matter peacefully, in the end only the courageous actions of France’s elite RAID unit could restore peace and security to French citizens and visitors to the country,” stated Mr Noble.

“Because of the professional and thorough investigation of French police and judicial authorities as well as the courageous actions of the elite RAID team today, this cold-blooded killer and admitted al-Qaeda linked terrorist no longer poses a threat to children, members of the French military and others targeted by him,” added Mr Noble.

“Whilst we are grateful that no more innocent persons will be threatened by this dangerous terrorist, we cannot forget the families and friends of those who lost their lives as a result of Mohamed Merah’s killing spree; our thoughts and prayers are with them,” concluded the INTERPOL chief.